Context determines the meaning is one of the important principles of biblical interpretation that is to be put into practice. Without proper consideration of the context, we might read Luke 9:57-62 and suppose Jesus followers were homeless and estranged. But context unveils the wrongheadedness of such an interpretation. Luke tells us that Jesus experienced rejection … Continue reading Costly Christianity: Were Jesus’ Followers Homeless and Estranged?
What is the Significance of Jesus’ Transfiguration?
Peter, James, and John were with Jesus on a mountain praying when something extraordinarily took place. The three disciples noticed Jesus praying when “the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white” (Lk. 9:29). [1] Mark and Matthew describe the appearance of the Lord as being “transfigured” (Mk. 9:3; Matt. 17.2).[2] … Continue reading What is the Significance of Jesus’ Transfiguration?
Is God a Man?
The Lord’s prayer beings, “Father, hallowed be your name” (Luke 11:2; cf. Matt. 6:9).[1] Elsewhere, Jesus addressed the Father as “Abba” (Mk. 14:36; cf. Rm. 8:15; Gal. 4:6), which is “the Aramaic word for ‘Papa,’ a term of great intimacy and affectionate respect.”[2] We can address God as “Father” or even “Papa.” But can we … Continue reading Is God a Man?
What is an Apostle?
Jesus spent all night on a mountain praying, and coming down the next morning, “he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter [Cephas], and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew [Nathaniel], and Matthew, and Thomas [Didymus], and James the son … Continue reading What is an Apostle?
Suffering, Vindication, and Resurrection from the Book of Job
I am listening to a reading of the Book of Job. Job was a man from Uz who suffered greatly. Bandits robbed him of his property. A storm felled the house that crushed his sons and daughters to death during supper. His body became riddled with loathsome, unpleasant, and painful sores. His three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, … Continue reading Suffering, Vindication, and Resurrection from the Book of Job